HSE press release E179-03 - 19 September 2003
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published a free new
information sheet for those who handle cytotoxic drugs, sometimes
known as antineoplastic, anticancer or chemotherapy drugs.
Safe handling of cytotoxic drugs provides useful information for
pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, medical and nursing staff,
veterinary practitioners and others involved in handling these
drugs, including people who clean up any spills. The drugs are used
in various places including hospitals, specialist oncology units,
care homes, domestic homes and veterinary clinics.
The guidance contains simple information on the potential health hazards and health surveillance, legal framework and the duties of employers and employees. It also gives useful tips on ways of controlling and monitoring exposure and appropriate waste disposal.
Will Pascoe from HSE's Health Services Unit said: "Cytotoxic drugs are extensively used to treat cancer and some have other medical applications. Most of the evidence on health effects is based on data from patients given therapeutic doses, but people handling such drugs need to be aware that some of these compounds are mutagenic and carcinogenic. Employers need to make sure that employees are aware of the risks and agreed control measures are being maintained."
Safe handling of cytotoxic drugs, MISC615, can be downloaded from HSE's website at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/misc615.htm
All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the HSE Press Office
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